Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ulmus rubra, commonly known as the Slippery Elm, is a versatile botanical species frequently utilized in the preparation of herbal medicine. This plant is highly regarded for its absorbent properties, which assist in soothing various internal discomforts. Scientific observations suggest it possesses significant biological activities, including acting as an ACE-inhibitor and an AP-1-inhibitor. Furthermore, its potential acetylcholinergic effects make it a subject of interest in pharmacological studies. Through these diverse mechanisms, the species remains a cornerstone of traditional and contemporary natural remedies.
- Synonyms
- Ulmus Pubescens · Ulmus Pinguis · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Ulmaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Ulmus rubra is a distinctive species recognized by a wide array of regional and linguistic identifiers. Commonly referred to as the Gray Elm in English, it also carries the name Kırmızı karaağaç in Turkish. The plant holds cultural significance in other areas, where it is known by the name Ozhaashigob (Anib). In different European contexts, one might encounter it labeled as Rode iep or the German Rot-Ulme. These various names highlight the diverse ways this specific tree is categorized across the globe.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ulmus rubra is a species known to be associated with several distinct botanical synonyms. Within various taxonomic records, it has been identified as Ulmus americana var. rubra. The plant is also frequently referred to by the name Ulmus dimidiata in older literature. Additionally, its classification has overlapped with Ulmus fulva and Ulmus heyderi in different scientific contexts. Finally, the name Ulmus pendula serves as another synonym used to describe this specific tree.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ulmus rubra belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, serving as a prime example of complex biological classification. Within this kingdom, the species is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Rosales, which connects it to a diverse array of related botanical life. The plant is a distinguished member of the genus Ulmus, a group known for its unique structural characteristics. Finally, it finds its specific botanical home within the family Ulmaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Ulmus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ulmus rubra maintains a widespread presence across a vast stretch of Northern America. Its range extends northward into Eastern Canada, where it can be found throughout the provinces of Ontario and Québec. Moving southward, the species is well-established across the North-Central United States. This distribution includes significant populations within the states of Illinois and Iowa. Additionally, the plant continues its reach westward into the landscape of Kansas.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ulmus rubra is a self-supporting species that takes the form of a sturdy tree. It can reach a maximum height of approximately 25.495 meters as it matures. This impressive growth allows it to establish a significant presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Ulmus rubra serves as an herbal medicine commonly used to manage gastrointestinal health and disease. Research indicates that this plant possesses significant prebiotic potential by altering the composition of the human gut microbiota. Specifically, supplementation with Ulmus rubra significantly increases the relative abundance of beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria. These microbial shifts are thought to improve colonic epithelium function and help reduce inflammation within the digestive tract. By modulating specific bacterial species, the plant helps create a unique microbial community that supports overall digestive wellness.
Preparations
Ulmus rubra is prepared as a herbal medicine specifically used to support gastrointestinal health and disease. In recent studies, this plant has been investigated for its prebiotic potential through anaerobic human fecal cultivation. Research shows that supplementation with Ulmus rubra drives the formation of unique microbial communities within the gut. Notably, the plant significantly increases the relative abundance of beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria. These shifts in microbiota suggest that its medicinal application helps modulate the gut environment to improve overall colonic function.